Configure Connection Filter in Exchange Online Protection Video 2

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through configuring connection filters in Exchange Online Protection (EOP). Connection filters help manage inbound email traffic by allowing or blocking messages based on their source IP addresses. Understanding how to set this up is crucial for maintaining email security and ensuring that you only receive legitimate emails.

Step 1: Access the Exchange Admin Center

1. Open your web browser and navigate to the Microsoft 365 Admin Center.
2. Sign in with your admin account.
3. In the left navigation pane, select Admin Centers and then click on Exchange. This will take you to the Exchange Admin Center (EAC).

Step 2: Navigate to Connection Filter Settings

1. In the EAC, go to the Protection section.
2. Click on Connection filter. This is where you can create and manage your connection filtering rules.

Step 3: Configure a New Connection Filter

1. Click on the + (Add) button to create a new connection filter.
2. In the settings window, provide a name for your filter that clearly describes its purpose.
3. Adjust the following settings:
   • IP Allow List: Add IP addresses that you want to always allow.
   • IP Block List: Add IP addresses that you want to block completely.

Step 4: Save and Apply the Filter

1. After configuring your filter, click Save to apply the changes.
2. Ensure that the filter is enabled in the list of connection filters.

Step 5: Test Your Configuration

1. Send a test email from an allowed IP address to verify that it is received successfully.
2. Send a test email from a blocked IP address to confirm that it is rejected.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Forgetting to save changes after configuring filters.
• Misconfiguring the IP Allow List and Block List, which could lead to legitimate emails being blocked.
• Not testing your configuration after setup, which can result in missed emails.

Conclusion

You have successfully configured connection filters in Exchange Online Protection. By following the steps outlined, you can enhance your email security and ensure that only trusted sources can send emails to your organization. For further enhancement, consider exploring additional filtering options or rules within the EOP settings to tailor your email protection strategy even more.